Our Friends In The North (DVD 2002)

This is quite simply how all television ought to be if one lived in an ideal world. Brilliantly observed characters,accurate historical overview, incisive scripting, wonderful performances and a gripping, heartfelt narrative. This is wonderfully realised stuff, Daniel Craig is absolutely amazing as Geordie Peacock and Christopher Eccleston gives a bravura performance. Also notable is Peter Vaughn, a great character actor. The big human themes this drama tackles with much aplomb, particularly the brokenness of that formative human male experience; fathers and sons. All set against 30 years of British history, the northern scenario, corruption, love and loss, the faults and virtues of life from teenage choices to middle aged repercussion. Stunning and brilliant! A modest, modern masterpiece. What more can be asked of television?